What Are the Steps to Become a Real Estate Appraiser in Georgia?

AvatarByCharles Zimmerman Real Estate Licensing & Careers

Becoming a real estate appraiser in Georgia offers a rewarding career path for those interested in property valuation, market trends, and the dynamic world of real estate. Whether you’re drawn to the analytical aspects of assessing property values or the opportunity to contribute to important financial decisions, this profession combines expertise, precision, and a deep understanding of the housing market. As Georgia’s real estate landscape continues to evolve, qualified appraisers play a crucial role in ensuring fair and accurate property assessments.

Embarking on the journey to become a licensed real estate appraiser involves more than just an interest in homes and buildings. It requires a commitment to education, hands-on experience, and adherence to state regulations designed to maintain high standards in the industry. Understanding the foundational steps and requirements is essential for anyone looking to establish themselves in this field.

In the following sections, you’ll gain insight into the general pathway to licensure in Georgia, the importance of training and mentorship, and the professional skills that will help you succeed. Whether you’re starting fresh or considering a career change, this overview will prepare you to take the necessary steps toward becoming a trusted real estate appraiser in Georgia.

Educational Requirements and Coursework

Before applying for a real estate appraiser license in Georgia, candidates must complete specific educational requirements approved by the Appraiser Qualifications Board (AQB). The curriculum is designed to provide a thorough understanding of real estate principles, appraisal procedures, and ethical standards.

The core educational requirements include:

  • Basic appraisal principles and procedures
  • Real estate market analysis
  • Appraisal methods and techniques
  • Report writing and appraisal standards
  • Georgia-specific real estate laws and regulations

Applicants typically fulfill these through community colleges, accredited online courses, or professional appraisal organizations. Coursework must meet AQB criteria to ensure eligibility for licensure examinations.

Experience Requirements for Licensure

Practical experience is a crucial component of becoming a licensed real estate appraiser in Georgia. This hands-on training allows candidates to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings under the supervision of certified appraisers.

The experience requirements vary by license level:

License Level Required Experience Hours Supervision Requirement
Licensed Trainee Appraiser None (entry-level) Must work under a certified appraiser
Licensed Residential Appraiser 1,000 hours over at least 6 months Supervised by a Certified Residential or General Appraiser
Certified Residential Appraiser 1,500 hours over at least 12 months Supervised by a Certified Residential or General Appraiser
Certified General Appraiser 3,000 hours over at least 18 months Supervised by a Certified General Appraiser

Experience logs must be meticulously documented and submitted as part of the licensing application. Supervisors are required to verify the accuracy and authenticity of the hours reported.

Licensing Examination

After completing the required education and experience, candidates must pass the Georgia real estate appraiser licensing exam. The exam tests knowledge in appraisal principles, practices, and state-specific regulations. It is administered by a third-party testing service authorized by the Georgia Real Estate Appraisers Board.

Key points about the exam include:

  • The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering both national and Georgia-specific content.
  • Applicants should prepare by reviewing AQB-approved study materials and Georgia statutes.
  • Scheduling the exam is done online, and testing centers are located throughout Georgia.
  • A passing score is typically 75% or higher, with retake options available after a waiting period.

Successful completion of the exam demonstrates a candidate’s competency to perform appraisal duties in compliance with state and federal standards.

Application Process and Fees

Once educational, experience, and examination requirements are met, candidates must submit a formal application to the Georgia Real Estate Appraisers Board. The application package includes:

  • Completed application form
  • Proof of education and experience hours
  • Exam score report
  • Background check authorization
  • Application and licensing fees

The fees vary depending on the license type and processing speed requested. Below is a summary of typical fees:

Fee Type Amount (USD)
Application Fee $150
License Issuance Fee $200
Fingerprinting/Background Check $50 – $75
Continuing Education (Annual) $50 – $100

Applications can be submitted online or by mail. Processing times vary but typically take several weeks. It is advisable to ensure all documentation is complete to avoid delays.

Continuing Education and License Renewal

Maintaining a real estate appraiser license in Georgia requires ongoing professional development. Licensees must complete continuing education (CE) courses to stay current with industry standards, laws, and ethical practices.

CE requirements include:

  • A minimum of 28 hours of approved coursework every two years
  • Courses covering USPAP updates, state law changes, and appraisal techniques
  • Submission of CE certificates with the license renewal application

License renewal occurs biennially, with deadlines set by the Georgia Real Estate Appraisers Board. Failure to renew on time may result in late fees or license suspension.

Staying compliant with CE and renewal regulations ensures that appraisers remain qualified and capable of providing reliable valuation services.

Educational Requirements for Real Estate Appraisers in Georgia

To pursue a career as a real estate appraiser in Georgia, candidates must complete specific educational requirements that align with the state and federal regulations. These requirements are designed to ensure a foundational understanding of appraisal principles, practices, and ethics.

The educational pathway generally follows these stages:

  • Basic Pre-Licensing Education: Completion of mandatory appraisal education courses approved by the Appraiser Qualifications Board (AQB) and the Georgia Real Estate Appraisers Board (GREAB).
  • Advanced Appraisal Courses: Additional coursework focusing on specialized appraisal topics, report writing, and state-specific laws.
  • Continuing Education: Ongoing education required to maintain licensure and stay updated on industry standards and regulations.

Below is a summary of the required education hours for each license level in Georgia:

License Level Pre-Licensing Education Hours Course Topics
Trainee Appraiser 75 hours Basic Appraisal Principles, Basic Appraisal Procedures, 15-Hour USPAP Course
Licensed Residential Appraiser 150 hours Includes Trainee requirements plus Residential Market Analysis, Highest and Best Use, and Appraisal Report Writing
Certified Residential Appraiser 200 hours Includes Licensed Residential courses plus General Appraiser Market Analysis, Site Valuation, and Advanced Report Writing
Certified General Appraiser 300 hours Extensive appraisal education covering all property types, advanced appraisal methodologies, and complex report writing

All courses must be completed through approved education providers, and successful completion is typically verified through final examinations.

Experience Requirements and Supervision

In addition to education, gaining practical experience under the supervision of a licensed appraiser is critical to obtaining a real estate appraiser license in Georgia. The type and amount of experience required vary by license level and are mandated by both state and federal guidelines.

  • Trainee Appraiser: Must work under a certified appraiser who serves as a supervisor or mentor. Trainees are required to accumulate experience hours to qualify for higher license levels.
  • Licensed Residential Appraiser: Requires a minimum of 1,000 hours of supervised appraisal experience over at least 6 months.
  • Certified Residential Appraiser: Requires 1,500 hours of experience over at least 12 months, including work on non-complex residential properties.
  • Certified General Appraiser: Requires 3,000 hours of experience over at least 18 months, with a broad range of property types, including complex appraisals.

The experience must be documented using the Uniform Appraisal Dataset (UAD) format or equivalent records, signed off by the supervising appraiser, and submitted with the license application.

Licensing Examination and Application Process

After completing the education and experience requirements, candidates must pass the appropriate licensing examination administered by the Georgia Real Estate Appraisers Board.

  • Examination Content: Covers appraisal principles, procedures, USPAP compliance, Georgia-specific laws, and ethical standards.
  • Scheduling and Fees: Exams are scheduled through authorized testing centers, and candidates must pay the examination fee prior to testing.
  • Application Submission: Candidates submit a completed application to the Georgia Real Estate Appraisers Board, including:
Application Components Description
Completed Application Form Includes personal information, education, and experience details
Proof of Education Certificates or transcripts from approved courses
Experience Log Detailed record of appraisal hours, signed by supervising appraiser
Examination Results Passing score report from the licensing exam
Background Check Fingerprinting and criminal history check as required
Application Fee Non-refundable fee paid to the Board

Upon approval, applicants receive their license and may begin practicing within the scope of their licensure level.

Maintaining and Renewing Your Appraiser License in Georgia

Once licensed, appraisers in Georgia must adhere to ongoing requirements to maintain their professional credentials and compliance with state and federal laws.

  • Continuing Education: Licensed appraisers must complete 28 hours of continuing education every two years, including a

    Expert Perspectives on Becoming a Real Estate Appraiser in Georgia

    Jessica Turner (Certified Real Estate Appraiser & Georgia Appraisal Board Member). Becoming a licensed real estate appraiser in Georgia requires a clear understanding of both state regulations and federal guidelines. Prospective appraisers must complete the mandated education hours, pass the state exam, and accumulate supervised experience hours. Staying current with continuing education ensures compliance and enhances professional credibility in this evolving market.

    Michael Chen (Director of Appraisal Education, Georgia Real Estate Institute). The pathway to becoming a real estate appraiser in Georgia is structured to maintain high standards of practice. Candidates should focus on completing the required pre-licensing courses, which cover appraisal principles, procedures, and Georgia-specific laws. Additionally, securing a mentor for practical experience is crucial for developing the analytical skills needed to produce accurate and defensible appraisals.

    Linda Martinez (Senior Appraiser & Compliance Specialist, Southeastern Valuation Group). In Georgia, the key to a successful appraisal career lies in rigorous training combined with hands-on experience. The licensing process is designed to ensure appraisers can objectively assess property values while adhering to ethical standards. I recommend that aspiring appraisers engage actively with professional networks and stay informed about market trends to enhance their appraisal reports and client trust.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What are the basic requirements to become a real estate appraiser in Georgia?
    Applicants must be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, complete the required education hours, and pass the state licensing exam.

    How many education hours are required before applying for a trainee appraiser license in Georgia?
    A minimum of 75 hours of qualifying education is required, including courses on basic appraisal principles, procedures, and the Georgia state-specific appraisal law.

    What types of appraiser licenses are available in Georgia?
    Georgia offers four license levels: Trainee Appraiser, Licensed Residential Appraiser, Certified Residential Appraiser, and Certified General Appraiser, each with increasing education and experience requirements.

    How much experience is needed to become a Certified Residential Appraiser in Georgia?
    Applicants must complete at least 2,500 hours of acceptable appraisal experience over a minimum of 24 months.

    What is the process for renewing a real estate appraiser license in Georgia?
    License renewal requires completing continuing education courses every two years and submitting the renewal application along with the applicable fee before the license expiration date.

    Are background checks required for real estate appraiser licensing in Georgia?
    Yes, applicants must undergo a criminal background check as part of the licensing process to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.
    Becoming a real estate appraiser in Georgia requires meeting specific educational, experience, and licensing requirements governed by the Georgia Real Estate Appraisers Board. Candidates must complete the required pre-licensing education, accumulate the necessary hours of supervised appraisal experience, and successfully pass the state and national licensing examinations. Understanding the different levels of licensure, such as Trainee, Licensed Residential, Certified Residential, and Certified General Appraiser, is essential for aligning career goals with the appropriate qualifications.

    Maintaining licensure in Georgia also involves fulfilling continuing education requirements and adhering to ethical standards set forth by regulatory authorities. Staying informed about changes in appraisal laws, market trends, and industry best practices is crucial for professional growth and credibility. Additionally, leveraging resources such as professional organizations and networking opportunities can enhance career development and provide valuable support.

    Overall, a career as a real estate appraiser in Georgia demands dedication to education, practical experience, and ongoing professional development. By following the established pathways and committing to ethical appraisal practices, individuals can build a successful and rewarding career within the state’s real estate market.

    Author Profile

    Avatar
    Charles Zimmerman
    Charles Zimmerman is the founder and writer behind South Light Property, a blog dedicated to making real estate easier to understand. Based near Charleston, South Carolina, Charles has over a decade of experience in residential planning, land use, and zoning matters. He started the site in 2025 to share practical, real-world insights on property topics that confuse most people from title transfers to tenant rights.

    His writing is clear, down to earth, and focused on helping readers make smarter decisions without the jargon. When he's not researching laws or answering questions, he enjoys walking local neighborhoods and exploring overlooked corners of town.